First Steps Being Taken to Send Bid for 2020 Canada 55+ Games

At a special meeting on Tuesday, council approved starting the bid process for the games, which would take place over four days during the summer.

These Olympic style events happen every two years, rotating between provinces, with this year’s games happening in Saint John, New Brunswick.

Mayor Don Scott tells Mix News, simply put, he wants the games to come to the RMWB.

“It’s going to bring economic stimulus to the region, it will make sure our hotels are filled, it brings ambassadors to the region who go away once they have the amazing experience of seeing how great it is here.”

There are 18 mandatory sports which include golf, pickleball, track and field, slo-pitch, and tennis.

The only issue is one of the mandatory events is bowling, something Fort McMurray doesn’t have.

Scott says the Canadian Senior Games Association will still allow the bid to go through – as they will include the remaining events along with six other optional sports.

Despite the event being waived, he adds the need and want for a bowling alley is strong across the community.

“Tons and tons of young people tell me it’s something they would like to see in this community, I know it’s not just young people, that’s something this community needs – if there was ever a community that can make great use of a bowling alley, it’s here.”

Administration will come back to council in the near future with updated numbers for the bid, which already includes allocating $20,000 from the operating budget.

They have until May 31 to decide if they want to send the bid for the games.